Rep. Fred Upton says FCC lacks sense of direction

Three candidates to lead the Republican side of the aisle in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce seem to have one thing in common – they all believe that the fourth candidate, Fred Upton (R-MI) may be too moderate. He has sent out a memo to establish his conservative cred, and says that the “FCC’s regulatory compass must be broken.”

Upton was referring to the FCC’s attempt to institute network neutrality regulations in particular, according to The Hill.

Upton is a leading candidate to chair the committee in the 112th Congress. However, current Ranking Member Joe Barton (R-TX) is trying to remain atop the committee despite the fact that his caucus-limited term has expired. Vying with Upton to replace Barton should his attempt to stick around fail are Cliff Stearns (R-FL) and John Shimkus (R-IL).

Upton called the FCC attempt to establish network neutrality principles a “blind power grab” and questioned whether the Commission has the legal authority to act on the matter.

Like many opponents of the net neutrality concept, Upton believes it would inhibit investment and by extension be damaging to the entire US economy.

Upton outlined other conservative positions he would adhere to that come before the committee that have nothing to do with broadcasting or communications.